Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of Chicken Marsala Pasta wafting through the kitchen. With its tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a creamy, wine-infused sauce, this dish is a sophisticated twist on a classic Italian-American favorite.

this Recipe

The first time I made this recipe, it was a cold autumn evening, and I wanted something comforting yet elegant for dinner. The result was a dish that my family now requests on repeat—a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to whip up.

Let’s dive into everything that makes this dish irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for Chicken Marsala Pasta! This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and practicality, making it a must-try for any home cook.

First and foremost, this dish delivers bold, complex flavors with minimal effort. The combination of dry Marsala wine, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce creates a flavor profile that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

It’s also surprisingly quick to prepare. In just 40 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal ready to serve, perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner party dish.

Budget-conscious cooks will love that this recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients like chicken, pasta, and pantry staples. Plus, it's a great way to elevate basic ingredients into something truly special.

Finally, Chicken Marsala Pasta is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or use up ingredients you already have on hand. Whether you prefer gluten-free pasta or a lighter sauce, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the luscious flavor of Chicken Marsala Pasta lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Here's a closer look at what you'll need to make this dish shine.

• Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thinly slice or pound them to ensure quick, even cooking. Thighs provide a slightly richer flavor, while breasts keep it lean.
• Marsala Wine: The star of the sauce, dry Marsala wine lends a deep, nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms and chicken. Be sure to use cooking-grade or better-quality wine for the best flavor.
• Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my go-to for this recipe. Their earthy flavor adds depth to the dish. If you can't find cremini, white button mushrooms are a fine substitute.
• Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the sauce, such as fettuccine, penne, or pappardelle. For a gluten-free option, opt for your favorite gluten-free pasta brand.
• Cream and Chicken Broth: These two ingredients create the creamy base of the sauce. Heavy cream offers a rich, velvety texture, while chicken broth balances it out with a light, savory note.
• Special Equipment: You'll need a large skillet for searing the chicken and simmering the sauce, plus a pot for boiling the pasta. A wooden spoon for deglazing the pan is also helpful.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta

Crafting Chicken Marsala Pasta is a straightforward process that delivers gourmet results. Let me walk you through it step by step.

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta to al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook until they release their moisture and turn golden, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Deglaze with Marsala Wine: Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
5. Create the Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken back to the skillet to warm through.
6. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, using a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the perfect consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

This dish comes together in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight indulgence or an elevated dinner experience.

Storage Options

Chicken Marsala Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain its quality.
• Freezer: While the pasta itself doesn’t freeze well, you can prepare the sauce and freeze it separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream, chicken broth, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Marsala Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or roasted cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
• Different Protein: Try substituting the chicken with shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• No Cream: For a lighter sauce, skip the cream and use a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of milk. You can also try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Marsala wine and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Experiment with these ideas, and you might just discover a new favorite version of this delicious dish!

With its rich flavors, simple preparation, and endless adaptability, Chicken Marsala Pasta is a recipe you'll want to keep in your rotation. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish never fails to impress. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love!

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